Throughout October, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is hosting a series of workshops and artistic events, providing a platform for both emerging and established talents to explore Arabic calligraphy and ornamentation. These sessions are part of the ‘Arabic Calligraphy, Ornamentation, and Gilding Courses’ initiative, which aligns with Dubai Culture’s mission to nurture creativity while preserving traditional art forms.
The initiative, held under the ‘Dubai Calligraphy Biennale,’ is open to individuals aged 13 and above, including students, employees, and anyone interested in the art of Arabic calligraphy.
Around 16 specialized workshops will cover a range of calligraphic styles such as Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani Jali, Ruq’ah, and Ijazah.
Attendees at the Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children will be guided through mastering letter formation, composition, and design. Additionally, participants will dive into the art of ornamentation, learning techniques in gilding, material use, and decorative design.
Complementing these workshops, Etihad Museum will host an exclusive lecture on October 8 for the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai staff. Titled ‘The Art of Arabic Calligraphy: Symbolism, Structure, and Aesthetic,’ this lecture will be led by artist and researcher Zaid Ahmed Amin Al Azami, a well-known expert in Arabic calligraphy. The session will introduce GDRFA employees to various styles of calligraphy, offering insight into their characteristics and underlying philosophy. Al Azami will also demonstrate how to craft traditional calligraphy tools, such as reeds and inks, while highlighting the cultural significance of calligraphy and its role in enriching global art.
The workshops and lectures aim to enhance artistic appreciation and elevate the cultural presence of Arabic calligraphy on the international stage.
The workshops are designed to foster both technical skills and creativity, offering participants hands-on experience with traditional tools and materials. The initiative also aims to strengthen cultural awareness and inspire a new generation of artists, further integrating Arabic calligraphy into Dubai’s artistic landscape.